Maryland Zoo Announces Death of Snowy Owl

Maryland Zoo Announces Death of Snowy Owl

BALTIMORE — The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is sad to announce the death of Sophie, a 4-year-old snowy owl, who died Saturday, March 3 during surgery.
“Sophie had reoccurring medical issues, and with intensive treatment and supportive care from animal and medical staff, she was able to recover from these problems in the past,” stated Mike McClure, general curator at the Zoo. “Unfortunately this time, after two weeks of intensive treatment, she did not respond. We are very sad to lose this struggle and she will be very missed by staff and guests.”
“A necropsy (animal autopsy) has been performed,” McClure continued. “Final results will be back in a few weeks, and we should learn more from these tests.”
The Maryland Zoo’s male snowy owl, a 13-year-old male, died of multiple medical issues in November. “Snowy owls are not easy to obtain,” explained McClure. “We are committed to this important species and will be making some exhibit changes before bringing them back.”